DSWD-6 gives PHP 329.9M to drivers

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Nearly 66,000 transport workers in Western Visayas have received cash assistance from the government, with the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 6 disbursing PHP 329.9 million under its Cash Relief Assistance Program as of May 31.

DSWD-6 reported that 65,983 beneficiaries have been served across the region, with each qualified transport worker receiving PHP 5,000 in assistance.

Agency data showed that tricycle drivers accounted for the largest share of beneficiaries, with 54,989 drivers receiving a combined PHP 274.945 million.

Jeepney drivers followed, with 6,381 beneficiaries receiving PHP 31.905 million.

Meanwhile, 4,613 drivers from transportation network companies and transportation network vehicle services received a total of PHP 23.065 million under the program.

The assistance is part of the national government’s efforts to cushion the impact of economic pressures on transport workers, many of whom continue to face reduced earnings amid fluctuating fuel prices and rising living costs.

The program aims to help beneficiaries offset daily operating expenses and support household needs.

The latest figures show that tricycle drivers made up more than four-fifths of all recipients in the region, reflecting the sector’s substantial role in local transportation services, particularly in rural and urban communities.

DSWD-6 said the distribution of assistance continues in coordination with local government units and transport sector stakeholders to ensure eligible beneficiaries are reached efficiently.

The agency encouraged qualified transport workers who have yet to receive assistance to coordinate with their local government units and designated help desks for updates on the program’s implementation.